Reaction to the death of evangelical author Tim LaHaye

(RNS) Those touched by the death of Tim LaHaye — and those who didn’t appreciate his brand of Christian conservatism — shared their memories and thoughts of the popular pastor and author via social media.

LaHaye — a pioneering Christian broadcaster, educator and the co-author of the best-selling “Left Behind” series — died Monday (July 25) at a hospital in the San Diego area after suffering a stroke, his ministry said.

Jerry B. Jenkins, co-author, with LaHaye, of the “Left Behind” series

“Thrilled as I am that he is where he has always wanted to be, his departure leaves a void in my soul that I don’t expect to be filled until I see him again.”

My deepest sympathy & prayers for the family of a wonderful man, @Dr_Tim_Lahaye, who passed away this morning.

“LaHaye also wrote a little piece of propaganda called ‘The Unhappy Gays,’ which was thin on facts and research and long on misinformation and outright lies, on which much of the anti-gay rhetoric of the right wing in the United States is based.”

Peggy Young Nance, CEO of Concerned Women for America

“My heart is heavy today with the news that Dr. Tim LaHaye has passed from here into his eternal home in Heaven. I have so many fond memories of him, including going running together in California and China when we were both younger. He cared about everyone, whether a prisoner or a billionaire, the same. He was a true Biblical scholar with a fascinating intellect and a deep love for his wife and children.”

I actually liked the Left Behind books. Not as ‘theology’, but as fun, escapist, speculative fiction. I know… https://t.co/CjxXExER7Y

Bob Jones University

“Bob Jones University extends its sympathy to the family of Dr. Tim LaHaye, a 1950 BJU graduate. We trust that his wife, Beverly, as well as his four children, nine grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren will know and feel the comfort and strength of our Lord during this time of deep loss. Throughout his life, Dr. LaHaye was a servant faithful to Christ and His Word.”

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